The Celtics will be without two starters as they face the Cavaliers at 6 p.m. Sunday in Cleveland. Neemias Queta (left ankle sprain injury management) and Derrick White (right calf contusion) are both out. Jayson Tatum also remains sidelined with his Achilles rehab.
Both Queta and White were on the injury report ahead of Saturday’s loss to the Timberwolves. Queta missed the win over the Pistons due to his sprained ankle, though he had a great night in the loss to Minnesota. But with the Celtics on the second game of a back-to-back, they’re likely being cautious with their starting big man.
White will miss his first game of the season due to the right calf contusion. He was probable ahead of the Wolves game before being upgraded to available. So the calf issue likely isn’t too serious, though the guard will get the night off.
Notably, Jaylen Brown isn’t listed on the injury report. He was questionable ahead of the Wolves game with low back spasms. But Brown looks good to go for Sunday’s game against the Cavs.
With Queta out, expect the Celtics to go with a mix at the center spot. Luka Garza has been the primary backup, though two-way big man Amari Williams got rotation minutes against the Pistons. If the C’s elect to go small, they’ll likely lean on Josh Minott, Chris Boucher or Jordan Walsh to play those minutes.
The Cavs employ some size up front, but they’ll be without Jarrett Allen for Sunday’s game. Cleveland will also be without Lonzo Ball, Sam Merrill, Larry Nance Jr. and Max Strus. The Celtics blew out the Cavs earlier this season in their first meeting of the year.
